The Market at Dajabon

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In Dajabon, a border town between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, Haitian merchants gather on Tuesdays and Fridays to sell their wares. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

The border opens at 8 a.m. (the iron gate on the bridge in the background of the photo), allowing Haitians to cross into the DR to sell at the market. Many eager Haitian vendors wade across the shallow Massacre River in advance of the official opening, or even the night before. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

On the Dominican side, the Haitians are often met by soldiers who charge a "tax" for the unofficial river crossing. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

Those who wait patiently at the border gates rush through carrying sacks of goods including food, clothing, shoes, and other items. PHOTO: Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

The Dajabon market is the third-largest economic generator in the DR after tourism and sugar. Brightly colored clothing for sale hangs from ropes. Blue tarps give some relief from the hot sun. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A chicken seller carries his wares on a pole across his back. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

Rice for sale. Though the two countries have endured tense relations, on market day, economic interests trump national grudges. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A group of women sell peas, nuts, and other produce. While waiting for customers, they occupy themselves by shelling peas. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A large pile of hot peppers – a popular addition to local foods – fills one stall. Dominican officials estimate that the equivalent of about $2 million in trade is transacted every week here. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A vendor with a spot on the edge of the 20-square-block market hangs up women’s blouses for sale. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

Dominican women sort through clothing – including lots of bluejeans – for sale in the bustling market. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A female shoe vendor seems to advertise her product by walking through the market with a sneaker on her head. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

‘Gently used’ shoes are set out for sale on a cloth at the twice-weekly market. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

Some Haitian vendors come over the river to buy produce from nearby Dominican wholesalers, then set up stalls to sell the goods at retail prices. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff

A truck is piled high with goods and passengers. Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff